Tarapacaite

(repeating unit)K2(CrO4)Strunz classification7.FA.05Dana classification35.2.1.1.1 Anhydrous chromatesCrystal systemOrthorhombicCrystal classDipyramidal (mmm)
H-M symbol: (2/m 2/m 2/m)Space groupPnam (no. 62)IdentificationColorBright yellow, yellow-orangeCrystal habitThick tabularCleavageDistinct/good
On {001} and {010}, distinctDiaphaneityTransparentSpecific gravity2.735SolubilitySoluble in waterOther characteristicsHealth risks: contains the carcinogenic and mutagenic chromate ionReferences[1]

Tarapacáite is the mineral form of potassium chromate with the chemical formula K2CrO4. It forms bright yellow crystals and was discovered in 1878. It is named for the former Tarapacá Province, Peru; nowadays belonging to Chile. The boundaries between Peru, Bolivia and Chile were vague in the Atacama Desert before the War of the Pacific (1879–1883). Its type locality is Oficina Maria Elena, Maria Elena, Tocopilla Province, Antofagasta Region, Chile. It is unlikely to occur anywhere except in highly arid conditions as it is easily soluble in water.[1][2][3]

References

  1. ^ a b Mindat
  2. ^ Webmineral.com - Tarapacaite
  3. ^ Handbook of Mineralogy (HOM - MSA) - Tarapacaite


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